GARFORTH : DI-EP MINING. 
471 
The knowledge of the foregoing and other facts suggested the 
idea that the subject of Deep Mining was one which, after an interval 
of nearly twenty years, might with advantage be considered by the 
members of a Scientific Society such as I have now the honour to 
address. 
It has been said that no brancli of science contributes to another 
without receiving a reciprocal benefit. It is therefore hoped that by 
an interchange of ideas between the geologist, microscopist, mining 
engineer, and other scientist, some practical suggestions may be 
offered to colliery officials and miners generally, with a view of lessen- 
ing the difficulties connected with deep mining, and if possible 
rendering undergi'ound work more endurable. 
Improvements which have been made during the last few years 
in machinery, ropes, and other colliery appliances, especially in 
electrical work, together with the increased information gained in the 
method of working seams of coal has already produced a feeling that 
coal may be worked at a much greater depth than was deemed 
feasible a few years ago. Much has already been done to bring 
scientific research into practical shape, and to substitute certainty 
for uncertainty. 
The difficulties connected with deep mining relate however 
more particularly to natural laws. In discussing the best means of 
overcoming sucli obstacles it is well to remember the doubts 
expressed by the last generation of colliery officials as to working 
coal at a depth of 400 to oOO yards. Difficulties which at one time 
seemed insurmountable have since been overcome. Nature does not 
volunteer information which man may discover for himself, probably 
for the reason that when man is capable of appreciating it he is 
capable of discovering it. 
No doubt there yet remain certain natural laws to be discovered. 
In the meantime man must remember that coal has been Divinely 
stored at great depths, with what intention his finite mind cannot at 
present comprehend. 
Some years ago (1870-73) the high price and scarcity of coal 
was deemed by certain consumers a national calamity. It is now 
admitted to have been a national blessing. Consequent on such 
